Most people hear Jesus say, “Judge not,” and assume Christians should never make judgments. But on Father Simon Says, Fr. Richard Simon explains that Scripture paints a much deeper picture.

Fr. Simon remembered St. Paul’s words, “Do you not know that we will judge angels?” Judgment in the Bible is not merely condemnation. Instead, it is the revelation of truth and, at times, the giving of wise counsel.

“We think of judgment simply in forensic terms,” Fr. Simon says. “But judgment is a statement of truth.”

Drawing from Wisdom chapter three, he describes the souls of the just “darting about like sparks through stubble,” sharing in God’s wisdom and helping others find Him. In this sense, “judging the nations” means offering guidance rooted in truth rather than self-righteous opinions.

Fr. Simon also warns against becoming judgmental people who constantly criticize others. Jesus, he explains, condemns the habit of continual condemnation, not the need for discernment. Christians are still called to judge situations wisely and lovingly.

Fr. Simon shares the story of a priest who briefly died and described judgment not as a courtroom argument, but as seeing himself exactly as God saw him.

“When he saw the truth of his life revealed,” Fr. Simon explains, “he realized he didn’t deserve Heaven at all.”

The reflection becomes a powerful reminder that God’s judgment is ultimately truth illuminated by mercy.

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